TV channels want IT-like sops in coming Budget

With convergence in the air, TV channels, which routinely import decoders, are crying hoarse against customs duties. At present, the duty imposed is more than 65 per cent whereas no item in the IT sector attracts more than 20-25 per cent duty.

Private channels point out that most broadcasters encrypt signals these days as they move towards digitising content.

Another issue raised is that broadcasters exporting programmes are entitled to import concessions. Those channels which uplink from abroad are thus benefitted, while those who uplink from within are placed at a disadvantage.

The broadcasters have also taken up the issue of entertainment tax imposed on cable operators. While this is imposed at the state level, private players want the Centre to intervene as it is not uniform, adversely affecting the industry.

Representatives of the industry have highlighted these problems in their meeting with the minister for information and broadcasting, Sushma Swaraj earlier.